CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND): The police presence in downtown Champaign is increasing on the weekends as a result of gunshots fired into the air several weekends ago.
It happened outside of Radio Maria. No one was injured but the violent act caused the Champaign Police Department to increase patrolling officers in the area.
Chris Knight, owner of The Blind Pig Brewery and The Bling Pig Co. says the increased is necessary and welcomed.
"I am thrilled to see it," Knight says. "I think we need more police downtown and they've been very good, very responsive to us bar owners."
He says the patrol officers are very respectful, noting that they chat and joke with his customers.
"They indulge in community policing so there's a police officer on a bicycle, several police officers walking around," Knight says.
He says since the increased police presence has created a safer environment for nightlife.
